The SSAT Guessing Strategy

Have you heard about the SSAT guessing strategy? It’s an important tactic for any student preparing to take the SSAT to know. Here are the essential questions, answers, and tips about the guessing strategy. 

Should you guess on the Middle or Upper Level SSAT? The answer is: It depends. You must first understand how the test is scored.

When your test is scored, you will receive one point for each correct answer. You will lose one quarter of a point for each incorrect answer. You will not receive or lose points for questions that are not answered. Try guessing only when you can eliminate one or more answer choices as wrong.

A few things to keep in mind: Keep moving. Do not waste lots of time on a question that is difficult for you. If you cannot answer it reasonably quickly, flag or make a note of it in your test book and go on. Go back to it later if there is time when you finish the section.

Take your time to earn as many points as you can on easy questions. You receive one point for each correct answer. Do not rush through easy questions and risk making careless errors.

Check your answer sheet. Mark your answers in the correct row on the answer sheet. Be especially careful if you skip questions.

Should you guess on the Elementary Level SSAT? Encourage your child to try to answer every question, making his/her best guesses about the questions of which he/she is unsure. There are no penalties for wrong answers on the Elementary Level SSAT.